The Return Of Ebola The Legionnaires Plague Begins

Nearly three dozen cases of Legionnaires’ disease, a severe, often lethal, form of pneumonia spread through the air, have been reported in the Bronx over the last two weeks in what the Health Department is calling a concerning “unusual increase” in cases. Thirty-one cases have been reported in south Bronx neighborhoods, primarily in High Bridge, Morrisania, Hunts Point and Mott Haven, since July 10, the Health Department said. Two of the people stricken with the condition died. Legionnaires’ disease is caused by exposure to the bacteria Legionella; in most cases, people are exposed to the bacteria by inhaling contaminated aerosols from cooling towers, hot tubs, showers and faucets or drinking water. Officials are testing water from cooling towers and other potential sources in the area to determine the source of the outbreak. Legionnaires’ disease usually sets in two to 10 days after exposure to the bacteria and has symptoms similar to pneumonia, including shortness of breath, high fever, chills and chest pains. People with Legionnaires’ also experience appetite loss, confusion, fatigue and muscle aches. http://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/Legionnaires-Disease-Outbreak-New-York-City-Bronx-Health-Fever-Cough-Chills-319433211.html?partner=nbcnews

The Return Of Ebola The Legionnaires Plague Begins